O4W home for rent! 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 10 ft ceilings, gas range in the kitchen, office, dining room, and storage in the cellar. Washer & dryer included, and off-street parking! Hardwood floors throughout and ceiling fans in the bedrooms, plus great closet space for a 1920 home! Just painted! Located conveniently near Atlanta Medical Center and all Old Fourth Ward has to offer. Less than a mile to Ponce City Market, Historic Old Fourth Ward Park & Splash pad, Highland Bakery, Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall, and more!
January 2020 Events Around Atlanta
1: Resolution Run
1-4: Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens
1-5: Holiday in the Park at Six Flags, Stone Mountain Christmas
1-11: Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
1-12: Winter Wonderland at Fernbank
1- Feb 23: License to Chill Snow Island at Lanier Islands
2-5: Ella Enchanted at Synchronicity Theatre
4-5: Volta at Atlantic Station
10- Feb 9: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at the Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville
11: Atlanta Cask Ale Tasting at Bold Monk Brewing Co
16: Culinary Futures Event at the Ritz-Carlton
16-19: Atlanta Boat Show at Georgia World Congress Center
18: Atlanta Winter Wine Fest, Atlanta Model Train & Railroadiana Show at Infinite Energy Center in Duluth, Chinese Lunar New Year Tasting Dinner at Canton House Restaurant in Chamblee
18-19: Harlem Globetrotters
19-25: Augusta Futurity
20: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commemorative March & Rally, MLK Day for Kids at Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Free Museum Day at Atlanta History Center, We Shall Overcome: Free MLK Day Tour, MLK Day 5K Drum Run at Piedmont Park, Martin Luther King Day Celebration in Sandy Springs, A tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Marietta, Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
23: Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture and Conversation Series
23-25: Cathedral Antiques Show
24-26: Atlanta Camping & RV Show at Atlanta Exposition Center South, Oysterfest
25: Battle of the Bands at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, ATL Wings Pub Crawl, Mediterranean Wine & Food Festival in Dunwoody
25-26: The Great American Motorcycle Show at Cobb Galleria
30- Feb 2: Atlanta Game Fest at Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta
31-Feb 1: Fly Fishing Show
31- Feb 2: Seishun Con, Athens Wine Weekend
2020 Outlook: Real Estate Market Forecast
We’re in the midst of the longest economic expansion in U.S. history, and economists think there’s still room to grow. A recent survey by the National Association for Business Economics found that experts believe the U.S. economy will remain positive throughout 2020.1
Still, given that recessions are a natural (and necessary) part of a business cycle, we know this period of growth will inevitably end. So you may be wondering … how will an eventual recession impact the real estate market?
Many Americans assume a recession would lead to a decline in housing prices like we saw during the Great Recession of 2008. But the real estate market crash we experienced wasn’t typical. In fact, the last recession wasn’t typical at all. It was the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression of the 1930s.
ATTOM Data Solutions analyzed real estate prices during the last five recessions and found that, in the majority of cases, home prices actually went up. Only twice (in 1990 and 2008) did prices decline, and in 1990 it was by less than one percent.2
So what can historical precedent—combined with today’s data—tell us about the future of real estate? Here’s where experts predict the housing market is headed in 2020 and beyond.
HOME PRICES WILL KEEP RISING
Economists predict U.S. housing prices will continue to rise, regardless of a recession. In fact, property data firm CoreLogic forecasts a faster rate of growth for home prices in 2020 than we saw in 2019, with the biggest gains at the lower end of the market.3
Arch MI Chief Economist Ralph DeFranco expects entry-level home prices to increase faster than incomes this year, making it even more difficult for many first-time buyers to afford to enter the market.4
“Low interest rates and a shortage of starter homes will continue to push up prices,” predicts DeFranco. “This is especially the case for lower price points, since builders have tended to focus on more expensive, higher-profit houses and less on replenishing low inventories of entry-level homes.”4
“Real estate is on firm ground with little chance of price declines,” said National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “However, in order for the market to be healthier, more supply is needed to assure home prices as well as rents do not consistently outgrow income gains.”5
What does it mean for you? If you have the ability and desire to buy a home now, don’t let a fear of recession or falling prices hold you in limbo. Economists expect home values, as well as rent prices, to continue rising. So you’ll likely pay more the longer you wait.
INVENTORY CONSTRAINTS WILL CONTINUE
According to Redfin, Americans are staying in their homes longer. In 2019, the average homeowner had resided in their home for 13 years, up from just eight years in 2010. That means there are fewer homes available today for those who want to buy.6
It’s possible that an increase in new construction could offer some relief. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) expects single-family housing starts to total one million this year, the highest level since 2007. And NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun predicts the average price of new construction will decline slightly as builders shift to building smaller, more affordable homes.7
However, these efforts may not be enough to meet current demand.“Despite improvements to new construction and short waves of sellers, next year will once again fail to bring a solution to the inventory shortage,” predicts Realtor.com Senior Economist George Ratiu. “In 2020, we expect inventory to struggle to grow and could instead reach a historic low level.”8
What does it mean for you? If you’re looking to buy a starter home, be prepared to compete for the best listings. Start your search early, and if you’re up against a deadline (like a new baby), build in plenty of time to find the right home. We can help you assess your options, including new construction and up-and-coming developments.
MORTGAGE RATES WILL REMAIN LOW
Mortgage rates have declined more than a full percentage point since November 2018, when they hit a recent peak of 4.94%.9 The Mortgage Bankers Association predicts rates will remain low, at around 3.7%, through mid-2021.10
While it may not seem significant, on a $200,000 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, that lower rate means buyers could save around $145 on their monthly payment and more than $52,000 over the life of their mortgage. Lower mortgage rates make homeownership more accessible and affordable for buyers.
Although economists expect mortgage rates to stay low, they caution against waiting to act. Economic factors, shifts in supply and demand, or unforeseen impacts of the November election could cause rates to rise unexpectedly. “We recommend borrowers with long-term plans of staying in their homes to lock in a low rate now because there’s no telling how long these low rates will last,” warns Preetam Purohit, a capital markets trader at Embrace Home Loans.11
What does it mean for you? If you’re looking to buy a home, act soon to lock in a historically low mortgage rate. It will minimize your monthly payment and could save you a bundle over the long term. And if you plan to stay in your current home for a while, consider whether it makes sense to refinance your mortgage at today’s lower rates.
MILLENNIALS WILL DRIVE THE MARKET
Millennials are expected to account for more than half of all mortgages this year, outnumbering Generation X and Baby Boomers combined. It’s not surprising, considering their age and stage of life. In 2020, the largest cohort of millennials will turn 30, and the oldest millennials will turn 39.8
“Family changes tend to drive home-buying decisions,” explains Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale. “Millennials are going to be active in the housing market not just because they’re just at the age when they’re thinking about becoming first-time home buyers, but they’re also in the age range when they’re having kids.”12
Younger millennials flocked to urban centers that offered easy access to work, shopping, and restaurants. But high prices, lack of square footage, and subpar schools are driving millennials out to the suburbs as they begin to marry and expand their families.
In response, a new model for suburban living has emerged. “Hipsturbias,” or mixed-use communities that bring the live/work/play concept to the suburbs, were recently named one of the top real estate trends for 2020 by the Urban Land Institute.4
What does it mean for you? If you’re a millennial who has been priced out of urban living or is looking for more space for your growing family, a number of suburbs in our area have a lot to offer. We can point you towards the communities that will best meet your needs. And if you’re a homeowner with plans to sell, give us a call. We know how to market your home to millennials … and can help you sell quickly for top dollar by appealing to this leading market segment!
WE’RE HERE TO GUIDE YOU
While national real estate numbers can provide a “big picture” outlook, real estate is local. As local market experts, we can guide you through the ins and outs of our market and the issues most likely to impact sales and home values in your particular neighborhood.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in 2020, contact us now to schedule a free consultation. We’ll work with you to develop an action plan to meet your real estate goals this year.
START PREPARING TODAY
If you plan to BUY this year:
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage. If you plan to finance part of your home purchase, getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a jump-start on the paperwork and provide an advantage over other buyers in a competitive market. The added bonus: you will find out how much you can afford to borrow and budget accordingly.
- Create your wish list. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? How far are you willing to commute to work? What’s most important to you in a home? We can set up a customized search that meets your criteria to help you find the perfect home for you.
- Come to our office. The buying process can be tricky. We’d love to guide you through it. We can help you find a home that fits your needs and budget, all at no cost to you. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today!
If you plan to SELL this year:
- Call us for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis. A CMA not only gives you the current market value of your home, it will also show how your home compares to others in the area. This will help us determine which repairs and upgrades may be required to get top dollar for your property, and it will help us price your home correctly once you’re ready to list.
- Prep your home for the market. Most buyers want a home they can move into right away, without having to make extensive repairs and upgrades. We can help you determine which ones are worth the time and expense to deliver maximum results.
- Start decluttering. Help your buyers see themselves in your home by packing up personal items and things you don’t use regularly and storing them in an attic or storage locker. This will make your home appear larger, make it easier to stage … and get you one step closer to moving when the time comes!
Sources:
- NBC News –
https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/what-impending-recession-new-survey-shows-most-people-think-they-n1098511 - Curbed –
https://www.curbed.com/2019/1/10/18139601/recession-impact-housing-market-interest-rates - HousingWire –
https://www.housingwire.com/articles/corelogic-expects-home-prices-to-do-this-in-the-next-12-months/ - Forbes –
https://www.forbes.com/sites/alyyale/2019/11/15/2020-housing-outlook-expert-predictions-for-mortgage-rates-home-prices-tech-and-more/#343ea4522935 - National Association of
Realtors –
https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/expect-continued-economic-growth-slower-real-estate-price-gains-and-small-chance-for-recession-in - Redfin –
https://www.redfin.com/blog/homeowners-staying-in-their-homes-longer/ - HousingWire –
https://www.housingwire.com/articles/builders-are-coming-to-the-housing-markets-rescue/ - Realtor.com –
https://www.realtor.com/research/2020-national-housing-forecast/ - YCharts –
https://ycharts.com/indicators/30_year_mortgage_rate - MBA Mortgage Market Forecast
November 2019 –
https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/forecasts-and-commentary - Dallas Morning News –
https://www.dallasnews.com/sponsored/real-estate/2019/11/23/experts-predict-where-mortgage-interest-rates-land-in-2020/ - Realtor.com –
https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/biggest-changes-coming-in-2020-real-estate-and-tips-for-buyers-and-sellers/
795 Hammond Dr #607 – For Lease – $1800
Updated 2 bedroom/2 bath home on the 6th floor now available! Home features hardwood floors throughout, great closet space, and updated kitchen with a full suite of stainless steel Whirlpool appliances. Washer/dryer included! Walk-in closets, balcony faces South. Amazing amenities include 2 gyms (one with a climbing wall), covered parking, 24 hour concierge, on-site dry cleaning & convenience store, coffee bar, club room, swim & tennis (being rebuilt), outdoor lounge with fire pit. Incredible Sandy Springs location close to shopping, transportation, dining and parks! The tennis court is currently under construction but there are courts next door at Abernathy Park.
Gifts and Gadgets for Every Room in the House
Are you searching for new and innovative gift ideas this holiday season? If so, check out our list of the hottest home technology offerings. We’ve selected a few of our favorites for every room in the house.
These smart systems and devices add comfort, convenience, and a “cool factor” that will delight your friends and family. So think about who you know that loves the latest gadgets … or add a few of these to your own wish list!
ENTRYWAY
Ensure the safety of your loved ones with these smart security upgrades.
Smart Lighting
Ring, a company best known for its video doorbells, has added smart lights to its series of integrated devices. The Ring Smart Light Systemincludes motion sensors, pathlights, spotlights, and even step lights, which can be turned on and off using voice commands when paired with an Amazon Alexa device. Users may opt to receive a notification when motion is detected on the premises, and—if integrated with Ring security cameras—access a live video stream for an added layer of security. Systems start at $69.99.
Video Doorbell
Video doorbells have become an increasingly popular security enhancement for homes, and for a good reason. Homeowners can detect activity at their front door while away, view visitors via video stream, and communicate without opening the door. Since Ring released its first smart doorbell in 2013, a number of competitors have entered the market. The Nest Hello Video Doorbell has some unique features—like facial recognition, package detection, and pre-recorded quick responses—that place it near the top of the pack. Retails for $229.
Smart Lock
Smart locks are a great way to ensure your friends and family are never left out in the cold, and the August Smart Lock Pro+ Connect is among the most highly rated. It’s one of the easiest models to install because it pairs with an existing deadbolt. The Smart Lock Pro enables a user to lock and unlock their door remotely with an app on their phone. And with the auto-lock/unlock feature, it can be set to open automatically upon approach and relock after entry. Retails for $279.
LIVING ROOM
These fun and functional gifts are perfect for anyone who is big on style—but short on time.
Automated Planter
Caring for household plants is easier than ever with the latest advancements in technology. Perfect for frequent travelers or forgetful friends, the Dewplanter uses moisture in the air to water plants without manual intervention. Now nature lovers can enjoy the beauty and health benefits of houseplants without the hassle. Plus, for each unit sold, the company pledges to plant a tree somewhere it’s needed. Retails for $69.50.
Smart Art
Instead of buying your favorite art lover a single painting, why not give him or her 30,000? With the Meural Canvas, you can access an extensive collection of artwork from around the world to display digitally in your own home. Meural utilizes proprietary technology to deliver an anti-glare matte display that automatically adjusts to the lighting in the room. Personal artwork and photographs can be showcased, as well. Retails for $445 with annual membership.
Motorized Shades
Motorized window coverings aren’t new, but a lower price point and enhanced features have helped to boost their popularity. The latest Motorized Shades from Somfy can be preprogrammed to raise or lower at certain times of day or controlled on-demand via a remote, smartphone app, or voice command when paired with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. They can also be set to operate automatically in response to the amount of sunlight or temperature of the room. Contact a dealer for pricing.
KITCHEN
These kitchen gadgets make life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. They’re perfect for your busiest friends and family members!
Pressure Cooker
Have you jumped on the multi-cooker bandwagon yet? If so, you know how fast and simple these multifunctional appliances make meal preparation. The InstantPot Duo is a pressure cooker, sauté pan, steamer, slow cooker, rice cooker, food warmer, and yogurt maker all-in-one. It reduces cooking time and lowers energy consumption. Who wouldn’t love one of these versatile tools? With numerous cookbooks and blogs devoted to InstantPot recipes, the meal options are virtually endless. Retails for $99.95.
Cocktail Machine
Cocktail connoisseurs will appreciate the ease and convenience of the Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine. Listed among “Oprah’s Favorite Things” for 2019, the Bartesian mixes drinks with the touch of a button. Simply fill the canisters with base spirits, choose a cocktail capsule, and the machine does the rest. Now you can mix a margarita, whiskey sour, cosmopolitan, and other favorites as easily as you brew a cup of coffee. Retails for $349.
Smart Refrigerator
Kitchens are often called the “heart of the home,” and a new refrigerator from Samsung aims to be the hub. The Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator helps busy families stay organized. Grocery shopping becomes a breeze with built-in cameras that allow owners to peek inside their fridge from anywhere. The interactive touchscreen displays pictures, notes, and reminders for family members. And the integrated SmartThings app enables users to control smart devices and appliances from a central point. Base model starts at $3,099.
BEDROOM
Almost nothing beats a good night’s sleep. Help your loved ones wake up refreshed with these smart devices for the bedroom.
Baby Sleep Soother
As any parent knows, when your baby isn’t getting sleep, neither are you. Help everyone in the family catch some z’s with a Bubzi Co Soothing Owl. This cuddly creature plays lullabies while projecting a starry scene on the bedroom wall to calm young children and help them drift off to sleep. And for every purchase, Bubzi Co makes a donation to Postpartum Support International. Retails for $30.95.
Sunrise Alarm Clock
Know someone who hates getting up in the morning? Alarm clocks that utilize light instead of a noisy alarm can provide a more peaceful transition in and out of sleep. The Philips SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-Up Light includes customizable sunrise and sunset simulation, guided breathing exercises, and sensors that track room conditions, like temperature, humidity, noise, and light. Retails for $199.95.
Smart Thermostat
Temperature fluctuations during the night can disrupt sleep. The Nest Learning Thermostat uses smart technology to track a user’s preferences and build a schedule around them. Homeowners can place one of its integrated sensors in their bedroom to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night. And Nest thermostats cut energy consumption, so they’ll rest easier knowing they’re saving the planet and money on utility bills . Retails for $249.
BATHROOM
Bathrooms don’t have to be boring. Technology can add flair to the daily routine.
Waterproof Speaker
Music enthusiasts and podcast fans will enjoy streaming their favorites in the shower with a wireless waterproof speaker. The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 is a mid-priced and versatile option that can go from the bath to the beach. It packs an impressive 13-hour battery life in a small, portable case that’s waterproof, dust-proof, and floatable. Retails for $99.99.
Digital Smart Scale
A scale isn’t an appropriate gift for everyone, but diet and fitness enthusiasts may appreciate the high-tech features available with the Withings Body+. It tracks weight, body water, and fat, muscle, and bone mass for up to eight users. It can also be set to display local weather and the previous day’s step count. Customized pregnancy and baby modes make this a suitable choice for a growing family, as well. Retails for $99.95.
Vanity TV Mirror
For a truly luxe bathroom addition, consider an integrated vanity television mirror. The Seura TV Mirror seamlessly incorporates video into a bathroom vanity. It’s vanishing glass technology makes it possible to view the television through a mirror. When turned off, the screen completely disappears. Add lighting or a custom frame to complete the look. Starts at $3,099 for a 19” display.
OUR GIFT TO YOU
Are you considering a permanent technology upgrade for your own home? Give us a call first! Buyer expectations and preferences vary depending on price point, architectural style, and neighborhood. We can help you determine how the enhancement will impact the value of your home before you make the investment.
Atlanta REALTORS® Market Brief November 2019 Edition
The Atlanta REALTORS® (ARA), the largest association of its kind in Georgia, released its November 2019 Market Brief on residential housing statistics in metro-Atlanta. The Market Brief, compiled by First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), provides the only regionally focused synopsis of monthly sales and home prices for single family residential properties. This summary covers 11 counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Paulding and Rockdale.
November Comments
Demand: November residential sales were at 4,108, a decrease of 3.7% from the previous year.
Price: Average and median sales prices continue to gain traction and outpace 2018’s figures, with positive gains. The median sales price in November was $279,000, an increase of 7.3% from last November. The average sales price was $342,000, up 4.0% from the previous year
Supply: Atlanta area housing inventory totaled 13,576 units in November, a decrease of 6.08% from November 2018. New listings totaled 3,533, down 13.1% from November 2018 and down 2.4% from the previous month.
A Word from 2019 Atlanta REALTORS® President DeAnn Golden: DeAnn Golden, President of Atlanta REALTORS® Association said “Although the November 2019 Atlanta area housing inventory has seen a minor decline from last year, average and median sales prices continue to increase and outpace 2018’s figures, with positive gains. The long-term trends for Metro Atlanta are still very positive and as we move into the holiday season, we, Atlanta REALTORS® are grateful for the privilege to help make the American dream of homeownership a reality for so many.”
The data in this report was compiled by First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS). For more information on details of this month’s report, please contact the Association at 404.250.0051.
*Each month, the numbers reported for the previous month are updated to reflect additional recordings.
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